Graduate and Professional School Advising
Graduate and Professional School Advising
Introduction
The Career Planning Center assists students in their search for a graduate or professional school program. Nationally, most undergraduate students first gain a few years of work experience before continuing on to an advanced degree. Career Planning can offer guides, degree program descriptions, and advice about the application process whether you are applying now or planning for the future.
Current students should:
- Attend a small group session about the graduate school process. Dates for these sessions are posted on the eBEAR calendar.
- Make an appointment with a Career Advisor by calling x3717
- Explore the links to the right for additional information.
Timeline:
The graduate school application process begins 18 months prior when you hope to matriculate. Plan accordingly.
Summer (15-18 months prior to matriculation):
- Research programs of interest
- Contact schools for applications and materials
- Register for admissions tests
- Check with schools about financial aid options (especially assistantships)
- Begin writing your personal statement
- Start to ask for letters of recommendation - see tipsheet.
In the fall (12 months prior to matriculation):
- Complete the personal statement and have it critiqued by professors, a Career Advisor and others
- Gather letters of recommendation
- Get financial aid paperwork in LONG before the deadline
- Take admissions tests
- Complete applications and mail them by Thanksgiving